Director of Annual Giving

Inspire Giving. Strengthen Community.
Job Description

This is a visible, mission-driven leadership role for a relationship-centered fundraiser who believes philanthropy is about connection, trust, and impact.

You will report directly to the Chief Development Officer and partner across branches to lead a comprehensive Annual Giving strategy that inspires generosity and expands opportunity across our community.

Annual Giving fuels the Y’s ability to remove barriers and increase access — from swim lessons and childcare to chronic disease prevention and leadership development programs.

Who You Are:

  • A collaborative relationship builder who connects people to purpose.
  • A persuasive communicator with exceptional written and verbal skills.
  • A creative strategist who loves testing new ideas and improving results.
  • A confident leader who can guide, motivate, and collaborate across teams.
  • Organized, adaptable, and skilled at driving initiatives from vision to results.
  • Comfortable working evenings or weekends in support of the Y’s mission.
  • Able to work remotely, in office and travel to branches on a regular basis.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree required.
  • 5–7 years of experience in fundraising, donor engagement, communications, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated success with annual fund programs, electronic solicitation, direct mail, and major gift prospecting.
  • Experience with donor databases and fundraising software (Salesforce preferred).
  • Strong analytical skills and comfort working with financial and performance metrics.
  • A collaborative leadership style and commitment to professional growth.
Essential Functions

Strategy & Growth

  • Design and execute a comprehensive Annual Giving program.
  • Drive donor acquisition and retention strategies across direct mail, email, social media, phone, events, and digital platforms.
  • Expand workplace giving and matching gift programs
  • Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward leadership-level donors.

Storytelling & Representation

  • Confidently articulate the Y’s mission and community impact.
  • Represent the Y at community meetings and events.
  • Equip staff and volunteers with compelling case-for-support messaging grounded in impact.

Leadership & Collaboration

  • Partner closely with branch leadership to build a strong culture of philanthropy across the Association.
  • Provide strategic guidance, tools, and training to branch staff to strengthen annual campaign execution.
  • Engage and support volunteer campaign leaders, board members, and community ambassadors to expand reach and participation.

Data, Innovation & Accountability

  • Use Salesforce and prospect research tools to inform strategy.
  • Track performance against revenue goals and adjust accordingly.
  • Analyze campaign metrics and prepare clear actionable reports.
  • Ensure accurate gift processing in partnership with Finance.
Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies
  • Mission Advancement: Incorporates the Y's mission and values into the organization's vision and strategies.
  • Collaboration: Initiates the development of relationships with influential leaders to impact and strengthen the community.
  • Operational Effectiveness: Possesses penetrating insight and strong strategic and critical thinking skills.
  • Personal Growth: Creates a learning organization. Effectively drives change by leveraging resources and creating alignment to expand organizational opportunities.
Required Certifications

Organizational leader, or multi-team or branch leader certification.

Why you Should Join Us:

The YMCA offers a supportive and dynamic work environment that encourages personal and professional growth. By joining our team, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community while enjoying a range of benefits designed to support your overall well-being. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy as an employee:

  • Impactful Work: Make a meaningful difference in your community every day.
  • Supportive Environment: Thrive in a collaborative, mission-driven workplace.
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive plans to ensure you and your family can receive the care you need.
  • Wellness Programs: Y membership for you and your family to support your physical and mental health.
  • Retirement Plans to Secure your Financial Future: The Y will contribute 10% of your salary into the Y’s retirement savings plan after eligibility requirements are met. You also have the option to make additional contributions to the Y’s 403(b) and ROTH plans.
  • Work-Life Balance: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
  • Training and Development: Access to professional development programs, workshops, and certifications.
  • Welcoming Environment: A commitment to ensuring all employees feel valued.